Unmasking the Self: My Soul-Mapping Journey

Reflective Question 1: When you look at your life right now, where do you feel you're pretending the most?

I pretend being rude when I’m actually soft, childish, and clingy. I act nonchalant because I fear people will misuse my innocence, depth, purity, and excitement. When they do, it breaks me more than what they do—I feel little and dumb.

Reflective Question 2: What do you believe you need to do or be in order to deserve love or validation?

I just want to be myself—raw and real—without faking even a part of me. Pure.

Reflective Question 3: What are you constantly trying to prove—to others or to yourself—and why?

I’m not trying to prove anything right now. I’m comfortable being me. People expect a lot from me, and I try to meet it because I trust myself. I have self-doubt sometimes—I'm human.

Reflective Question 4: What part of yourself do you abandon or silence the most—and in what situations?

I silence my inner child, my vulnerability. I’ve never shown my aching parts to anyone because I don’t think anyone can fully understand. I neglect my health and body, especially during emotional chaos. I lose hope during family fights. I skip meals and stress a lot.

Reflective Question 5: What would you say to your younger self if she asked: “Am I too much? Will I ever feel safe and loved?”

I’d hug her and say, “My love, this world is cruel. Let yourself fall when you’re tired—I’ll catch you. Trust yourself and the timing of God. If you ever hate your appearance or anything about yourself—I love you more than tons.”

Reflective Question 6: What identity or role do you cling to most—because you’re afraid of who you’d be without it?

None. No one loves me for any role—I just am who I am. I would be scared to lose myself. My depth, passion, love, and flaws are part of my essence.